Since the 1950s, Marikina has been known for having the best handcrafted and export-quality shoes. And thanks to the efforts of young entrepreneurs who have built brands that support the town's local artisans, Marikina's shoe industry remains alive today—dare we say it's thriving, even. With these artisans' incomparable talent in shoemaking, shoe lovers need not to go so far to look for quality pairs of footwear. Many local brands have even upped the ante in making the finest footwear by incorporating imported calfskin leather and other high-quality materials in their products that you'd typically expect from an international brand.
Basically, the locals' craftsmanship in shoemaking is unparalleled, and it's evident through their tasteful designs and durable footwear that will last you a lifetime. So gents, if you want to support the local shoe industry and score stylish footwear at once, check out the brands below:
Best Men's Shoe Brands in the Philippines
1. Marquina Shoemaker
Marquina Shoemaker, a brand that embraces the Philippine shoemaking history in Marikina, is known for their ready-to-wear handmade pairs. Their designs have a modern flair to them that still incorporates classic elements so they'll never go out of style. Their shoes are all made from genuine leather and are perfect if you're looking for something striking yet timeless. You can also pay their physical store a visit to see them for yourself!
The Grand Horsebit Loafer in Black Noir, P5650, MARQUINA SHOEMAKER
.jpg)
The Grand Tassel Loafer in Mahogany Brown, P5650, MARQUINA SHOEMAKER
2. El Marikeño
As its name suggests, El Marikeño is also a brand made in Marikina that makes premium quality footwear, ranging from dress shoes to casual shoes. With their unique and tasteful pairs, such as their brogues and chelsea boots, you can have a solid shoe collection for every occasion. To add to that, you have the option to have any style made in different colors, too!
Brogues, P3699, EL MARIKENO
Mustard Chelseas, P3999, EL MARIKENO
3. Sapatero Manila
Sapatero Manila was established in 2013, and it offers both ready-to-wear and made-to-order shoes. Their mission is "to bring back Philippine shoemaking, one pair at a time." Through their most skillful artisans with calfskin leather acquired from Europe, this brand produces fine footwear that aim to be a standard quality of both the Philippines and throughout the world. With the premium quality of their shoes, it's worth considering investing in a pair (or two).
Castillo II, P10,200, SAPATERO
Francisco II, P9700, SAPATERO
4. Godfather Shoes
Godfather Shoes, a brand perhaps named after the iconic American film The Godfather, definitely lives up to its inspiration. Their timeless and sleek designs are Philippine-made, premium in quality, with options that won't break your budget. Shoes from this brand can also be engraved with anything from a name to a logo—perfect if you want a personalized pair or are purchasing one as a gift.
GSB 1.0 High Cut Wingtip, price unavailable, GODFATHER SHOES
GS9.2 Full Brogue Oxford in Oakwood Brown, price unavailable, GODFATHER SHOES
5. Black Wing Shoes
Black Wing Shoes is local brand that offers handcrafted, custom-made, mid-range priced pairs. Together with their set of skilled workers, they're able to create their own innovative, experimental styles of shoes that you can't find anywhere else. That said, they also offer the essential classic pairs for men like oxfords and loafers!
Whole Cut Oxfords, price unavailable, BLACK WING SHOES
Belgian Monk Loafers, price unavailable, BLACK WING SHOES
6. The Nobleman
Founded in 2016, Nobleman is a Manila-based online brand that showcase everything you're looking for in a good pair of a shoe. They pride themselves in creating products that combine comfort, quality, and authentic style. Many of their affordable pairs, such as boat shoes and loafers, are perfect for everyday wear!
Plaridel Boat Shoes, P1850, THE NOBLEMAN
Zamora Loaders, P1850, THE NOBLEMAN
7. Joco Comendador
Joco Comendador's eponymous brand offers handcrafted shoes with experimental designs for everyone looking for statement footwear. With a slew of playful pairs, surely you can cop a pair fit to your personality.
Voca-Mule-Lary Mules, P6500, JOCO COMENDADOR
Kirby Mules in Amber Croc, price unavailable, JOCO COMENDADOR
Hey, Preview readers! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Tiktok, and Twitter to stay up to speed on all things trendy and creative. We’ll curate the most stylish feed for you!
